Camp Japan
The Ultimate Japan
Cultural Experience.
August 2nd to 6th 2026
Experience the real Japan alongside Japanese children
5-Day Cultural Immersion Camp for Ages 8–16
Stay in a traditional inn, take part in cultural activities, explore local sights, and build real friendships that last beyond the trip.
A special opportunity to expererience Japanese culture and make lasting friendships. Check below for a list of activities and experiences on offer.
About the Program
Don't just visit Japan.
Live it!
The most meaningful experiences happen when you see a country through the eyes of the people who live there.
For over 12 years, Momenta Kids has been designing carefully structured programs that allow children to experience Japan from the inside.
Meet the owner.
Schedule a call over ZOOM.
Camp Japan is led by Phillip Jacobson, founder of Momenta Kids and CEO of IGNITED.
Originally from Australia and based in Japan for over 25 years, Phillip has dedicated his career to creating meaningful, well-structured programs for children that go beyond the classroom.
Over the past 12+ years, he has personally designed and overseen hundreds of programs, supporting more than 5,000 children through camps, cultural experiences, and international programs.
What matters most to him is simple:
👉 Children feel safe
👉 Parents feel reassured
👉 Every experience has purpose
Phillip is directly involved in the planning and execution of each program, ensuring that every detail — from safety to daily structure — meets the highest standards.
His approach combines:
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Deep understanding of both Japanese and international cultures
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Strong experience working with children of all backgrounds
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A clear focus on creating environments where children can grow with confidence
For families, this means you are not sending your child to an unknown program —
you are trusting a system built on experience, care, and accountability.
contact us at info@ignited.jp to get in touch or schedule a zoom call.
Core Themes
Cultural Exchange. Real Experiences.
Even when you visit a country, sometimes it is hard to really get a sense for how people live and how their culture is lived day to day. At camp Japan we give children the opportunity to experience Japan alongside Japanese children. Your child will also have the opportunity to learn Japanese too.
What Children Gain
Why Camp Japan rocks!
Interactive
Our program is built around shared, group-based experiences that reflect real Japanese culture.
Children take part in traditional activities, daily routines, and meaningful interactions with local participants.
At least half of the group is made up of Japanese children, creating a natural environment for connection, communication, and cultural exchange.
Safe
Safety and supervision are at the core of everything we do.
In collaboration with Renée Sawazaki, host of Kiyomizu House, and our experienced staff team, children are supported at all times throughout the program.
Parents receive regular updates, and we are always available to respond to any questions or concerns.
Fun
Camp Japan is designed to be engaging, active, and genuinely enjoyable.
From cultural activities to outdoor experiences and group challenges, every day is filled with moments that children will look forward to.
It’s not just fun for the sake of it — it’s fun with purpose, creating lasting memories and meaningful experiences.
Program Experience
Unique Location. Unique Experiences.
Camp Japan takes place at a rare and historic estate in Gunma, just outside Tokyo — a traditional Japanese farmhouse known as Kiyomizu House. Originally built as one of the region’s largest silk farmhouses, this remarkable wooden structure has been carefully preserved and transformed into a cultural retreat space. Surrounded by nature, castle grounds, and local onsen, it offers a setting that feels completely different from modern Japan. Children stay together in traditional tatami rooms, share meals, and experience daily life in a way that simply isn’t possible in hotels or tourist accommodations. This is not just where they stay — it’s a central part of the experience itself.
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Watermelon splitting (Suikawari)
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Flowing somen noodle experience
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Daruma doll painting
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BBQ
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Onsen (hot spring) experience
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Fireworks
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Calligraphy
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Japanese cooking experience
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Visits to castles and historical sites
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Museums and cultural facility visits
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Local sightseeing to experience regional culture
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Stay in a traditional Japanese house (kominka)
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Japanese lessons.
Learn the customs. Try new food. Expand your comfort zone!
Collaboration
In collaboration with "Mrs Gunma"
Renee Sawazaki
Renée Sawazaki, host of Kiyomizu House, has lived in Japan for over 20 years and is fluent in Japanese. Having raised her family here, she brings a deep understanding of both Japanese culture and the needs of international families. She is dedicated to creating meaningful, memorable experiences while ensuring the safety, wellbeing, and comfort of every guest.
